Electrical cardioversion

Electrical cardioversion is a treatment which is used to restore a normal heartbeat in people with heart rhythm problems (cardiac arrhythmias). 

Symptoms of heart rhythm problems may include:

• A pounding, fluttering feeling in your chest
• Dizziness or fatigue
• Shortness of breath
• Pain or discomfort in your chest

If you think you may have a heart rhythm problem, or have experienced any of these symptoms, then you should make an appointment to see a cardiologist as soon as possible.

Electrical cardioversion is not suitable for everyone, however if you are diagnosed with a heart rhythm problem such as atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter or ventricular tachycardia, your cardiologist may recommend it. 

During this treatment, controlled electrical signals are sent to your heart, to try and restore a normal heart rhythm.

There are 2 types of electrical cardioversion: external and internal. 

External cardioversion: this is done under general anaesthetic (you will be asleep throughout the process). Electrodes connected to a defibrillator machine are placed on your chest and back. The electrodes administer one or more controlled electric shocks to try and restore your heart rhythm to normal.

Internal cardioversion: this is done under local anaesthetic (you will be awake during the process). A small tube is inserted into a vein at the top of your leg. A fine wire is then passed through this tube and into your heart, to deliver an internal electric shock.

Electrical cardioversion usually only takes around 10-20 minutes to complete, however you will be closely monitored by your cardiologist for several hours afterwards. Depending on how you respond to the treatment, your general health and whether you have any other medical conditions, you may be able to go home the same day. However, in some cases it may be necessary to stay overnight for monitoring.

Electrical cardioversion is an effective treatment for many people living with heart rhythm problems, as it can quickly restore a regular heartbeat. However, some people need additional treatments to maintain a normal heart rate in the future.

Most people do not experience complications from electrical cardioversion, and the risk to your health if you are diagnosed with atrial fibrillation or another heart rhythm problem is usually much greater than the risks associated with this treatment.

Although complications from electrical cardioversion are rare, some people do experience side effects. Common side-effects from electrical cardioversion include:

• Headaches/dizziness (caused by a drop in blood pressure)
• Chest discomfort at the site of the treatment
• Nausea/sickness (from the anaesthetic)

These symptoms are usually temporary.

In rare cases, people experience more serious complications from electrical cardioversion. These include:

Blood clots in the heart: this can be life-threatening if the blood clots dislodge and travel to the lungs or brain, causing a pulmonary embolism or stroke. Your cardiologist may recommend taking blood thinning medication before and after the procedure.

Other heart rhythm problems: in some cases, people develop a different type of heart rhythm problem following electrical cardioversion, although often this can be corrected with medication or further cardioversion treatment.

Damage to the heart: although this is usually temporary, in very rare cases it can lead to heart failure

Minor burns: occasionally, people experience minor burns where the electrodes are placed on their skin. If this occurs, it can be easily treated with cream.

Electrical cardioversion is not suitable for everyone. Your cardiologist will take into account your symptoms, diagnosis, and other risk factors such as your age, weight and other health conditions you may have, before deciding whether it is the best treatment option for you.

For some people, electrical cardioversion is initially successful however their heart rhythm problem returns later. In order to reduce the chances of this happening, your doctor may prescribe medication to take before and after the procedure.

If you do experience complications after your procedure, then don’t worry. Your cardiology team will be on-hand to monitor your progress closely and make sure you receive the care that you need.

For most people, electrical cardioversion can be done as a day case procedure. This means that you won’t need to stay in hospital overnight. 

There are several different options available for paying for electrical cardioversion. In some cases, the procedure is covered by private medical insurance. Speak to your insurer to find out whether you are covered for this treatment, and whether any conditions apply. 

You can also choose to pay for your electrical cardioversion privately using your preferred payment method. We will provide you with a clear and transparent quote for the treatment, so that you’re not surprised by any hidden costs or additional charges.

If you would like to find out more about our payment options, then you can telephone us on: 020 3811 7567, or use our online appointment service. We’ll be happy to talk you through the options.